🌱 Local Pastor Involved In Triple Shooting + Blue Bayou Water Park

Hey, Baton Rouge. I'm here in your inbox today to tell you everything you need to know about what's going on in town.

But first, your local weather:

• Thursday: Mostly sunny. High: 88 Low: 66.
• Friday: Mostly sunny and pleasant. High: 89 Low: 64.

From our sponsor:

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Here are the top three stories in Baton Rouge today:

1. A family argument escalated into a triple shooting in Baton Rouge, leaving Pastor Ryan Hallford, a staff member at St. Joseph's Academy, hospitalized and in the intensive care unit. Two suspects were arrested by the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff's Office after the incident at Toula Oaks Trailer Park. Casey Hallford allegedly shot his siblings during the argument and then fled the scene but was later apprehended. (WBRZ News)
2. Blue Bayou Water Park in Baton Rouge will open on May 30 providing a summer getaway for kids in south Louisiana. However, Dixie Landin', the amusement rides and games section, will remain closed. Blue Bayou Water Park will operate daily from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. until Aug. 8, and then on weekends until Labor Day, although some attractions may have modifications due to staffing challenges. The park is also seeking lifeguards who are at least 15 years old. (KPEL)
3. LSU officials and Mayor Sharon Weston Broome are advocating for the establishment of a Louisiana Cultural District that would encompass LSU's flagship campus. The district aims to attract people, businesses, and cultural activities, offering tax credits for the rehabilitation of historic structures and sales of original art. The creation of the district is expected to promote economic development, support student initiatives in arts and culture, preserve historic buildings, and create an engaging atmosphere for residents and visitors. (Business Report)

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Today and tomorrow in Baton Rouge:

Thursday, May 25

• Master Gardner Talks At Bluebonnet Library (6:30 PM)
• Geaux Weekly Social Bike Ride At Geaux Rides (7:30 PM)

Friday, May 26

• English + Western Riding Lessons At Farr Park Equestrian Center (4:00 PM)
• Live Music: D. Scott Riggs At Agile Brewing (5:30 PM)

From my notebook:

• Baton Rouge has made progress in its park system, according to the Trust for Public Land's 2023 ParkScore index, ranking 61 out of 100 cities. The city climbed six spots from the previous year due to increased investment in its local park system, managed by BREC. Baton Rouge allocated $157 per person to local parks in 2023. (Business Report)
• Need some plans for the upcoming holiday weekend? Don't miss out on the Memorial Day concert happening at the Main Library, the exciting Gonzales Jambalaya Festival, or the vibrant Groovin' on the Grass Fest! These events offer fantastic entertainment options for you to enjoy and make the most of your long weekend. (The Advocate)
• Louisiana State Police is inviting applications for Cadet Class 103, scheduled to begin in the Fall of 2023. Further details on the hiring process, qualifications, benefits, physical fitness standards, and frequently asked questions can be found on the Louisiana State Police website. (Louisiana State Police via Facebook)

You're officially in the loop for today. I'll see you around!

— Nicole Fallon-Peek

About me: Nicole Fallon-Peek is a journalist and copywriter with a degree in Media, Culture and Communication from New York University. She has served as a freelance reporter, managing editor, copy editor, and editorial director for a variety of B2B news outlets. She currently co-owns and operates content creation agency Lightning Media Partners.